My family and I visited the FDR Presidential Library & Museum on July 14, 2024.

One of the 13 (current) NARA-run Presidential Museums, FDR's museum was the first one opened. It documents the 32nd president's time in office (and before it) with many artifacts and pictures. Visitors begin their experience in the Henry A. Wallace Visitor's Center, and can visit both the museum and FDR's home (run by the National Parks Service). The New Deal Store is also in the visitor's center, as well as a small theater to watch the orientation film.

As with all the other NARA presidential museums, I absolutely loved my time at FDR's museum. There is plenty to see, and the exhibits didn't shy away from the controversial aspects of the president's legacy (womanizing, Japanese internment etc.) either. In the museum itself, I spent about 3 hours. That was enough for the museum, though not enough to include the temporary exhibit. If you plan to see everything and take things slowly, I would recommend between three and four hours (this is not including the house or lunch, which I reviewed separately). The whole experience makes for a great day trip. I was also very glad that, unlike all the other NARA museums, this one is open until 6:00 (at least during the summer -- not sure about the rest of the year). Not to mention, as dog owners, we loved all the Fala-related lore.

One cautionary detail -- the gift shop closes before the museum. If you plan to be at the museum late, don't wait until the end to visit the store.